The Super Falcons’ journey at the Paris Olympics has come to an end. A 3-1 defeat to Japan in their final Group C game led to their disappointing exit from the competition.

Nigeria lost their first two matches against Brazil and Spain but entered Wednesday’s game with a slim chance of advancing to the quarter-finals of the women’s football event.

Japan dashed those hopes by scoring twice within ten minutes, starting in the 22nd minute. Hamano Maika netted the first goal, followed by Tanako Maina’s well-placed free-kick in the 32nd minute, beating Chiamaka Nnadozie.

The Super Falcons responded with a goal from Jennifer Echegini in the 42nd minute, providing a glimmer of hope for a comeback. However, Kitagawa Hakaru scored deep into added time, securing Japan’s victory and ending Nigeria’s Olympic campaign.